Mon Nov 18 00:28:25 UTC 2024: ## AAP Minister’s Resignation Signals Impending Collapse, Claim Rivals
**New Delhi, November 18, 2024** – The resignation of Delhi Cabinet Minister Kailash Gahlot from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has sparked a political firestorm, with rival parties predicting the party’s imminent downfall ahead of the February Assembly elections.
Gahlot, a prominent Jat leader and MLA from Najafgarh, held several key portfolios in the Atishi-led government. His departure follows the exits of two other prominent AAP figures this year: former ministers Rajendra Pal Gautam and Raaj Kumar Anand, who joined the Congress and BJP respectively.
The BJP characterized Gahlot’s resignation as further evidence of AAP’s crumbling foundation, describing the party as a “sinking ship.” Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva highlighted Gahlot’s alleged concerns about corruption within the AAP, echoing BJP’s long-standing criticisms.
The AAP, however, countered these claims, alleging that Gahlot’s resignation was a result of pressure from central investigative agencies, namely the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), acting at the behest of the BJP. AAP’s Sanjay Singh accused the BJP of using such tactics to harass its leaders. Party spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar suggested that ongoing investigations against Gahlot forced his hand.
The Congress also seized on the opportunity to criticize AAP, echoing the accusations of corruption and misgovernance, with Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav stating that Gahlot’s resignation validated their claims.
The ongoing political maneuvering leaves the AAP facing significant challenges as it heads towards the crucial Assembly elections. The accusations and counter-accusations highlight the deep divisions and uncertainty surrounding the party’s future.
First Piper 